General Assembly passes bill that would allow for instate tuition for active-duty and reserve military

STATE HOUSE — The Rhode Island General Assembly has passed legislation introduced by Senate Majority Leader Michael J. McCaffrey (D-Dist. 29, Warwick) and Rep. Camille F.J. Vella-Wilkinson (D-Dist. 21, Warwick) that would make provisions for instate tuition for members of the military on active duty. The measure now heads to the governor’s office.

The legislation (2017-S 0462, 2017-H 6377) would grant instate tuition status at state operated schools to active duty and reserve members stationed in Rhode Island.

“Members of the armed forces who are stationed far from home are serving their country at great inconvenience to themselves and their families,” said Majority Leader McCaffrey. “We should not ask these men and women who are so valiantly serving to pay out-of-state tuition rates at our colleges and universities. It’s the least we can do to show our appreciation for their service.”

Representative Vella-Wilkinson, a retired naval officer, echoed those thoughts, saying, “This is a small gesture that could have a big impact on the lives of service men and women who live in our state. The life of someone in the armed forces comes with no guarantees, and they are asked to put up with a lot. Easing that burden will go a long way for those who are willing to risk their lives for all of us.”